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DEPRESSION. Antonija Jukić Mentor: A. Žmegač Horvat. The words above belong to author William Styron, and they describe his first episode of major depression This experience belongs to millions. Definition of MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER.
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DEPRESSION Antonija Jukić Mentor: A. Žmegač Horvat
The words above belong to author William Styron, and they describe his first episode of major depression • This experience belongs to millions
Definition of MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER • Mental disorder characterized by an all-encompassing low mood accompanied by low self-esteem, and loss of interest or pleasure in normally enjoyable activities • Depressed mood persists for at least two weeks
Subtypes • Melancholic depression • Atypical depression • Catatonic depression • Postpartum depression • Seasonal affective depression
Symptoms and signs • Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness • Loss of interest in daily activities • Appetite or weight changes • Sleep changes • Irritability or restlessness • Loss of energy • Self-loathing • Concentration problems • Unexplained aches and pains
Depression and suicide!!! • 3.4% of people with major depression commit suicide • 60% of people who commit suicide have depression or another mood disorder
Causes and risk factors for depression • Loneliness • Lack of social support • Recent stressful life experiences • Family history of depression • Marital or relationship problems • Financial strain • Early childhood trauma or abuse • Alcohol or drug abuse • Unemployment or underemployment • Health problems or chronic pain
Biological theories • Dysregulation of monoamine chemicals serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain • Most antidepressants increase the levels of one or more of the monoamines
Diagnosis • Patient's self-reported experiences • Behavior reported by relatives or friends • Mental status exam • No laboratory test for major depression
Differential diagnoses • Dysthymia • Adjustment disorder with depressed mood • Bipolar disorder
Management • Antidepressant medication (MAOIs, TCAs, SSRIs) – delayed onset of action (2-6 weeks)!!! • Psychotherapy or counselling • Hospitalization • Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Prevention - Lifestyle changes! • Cultivating supportive relationships • Getting regular exercise and sleep • Eating a healthy, mood-boosting diet • Managing stress • Practicing relaxation techniques • Challenging negative thought patterns • SMILE
References • www.wikipedia.org • www.helpguide.org